The Ministry of Consumer Protection of Spain has imposed penalties on Ryanair, Easyjet, Vueling, Norwegian and Volotea for a total of 179 million euros. The reason was the recovery of passengers for carrying hand luggage and a number of other services that were recognized as a violation of client rights.
The amount of penalties:
- Ryanair: 108 million euros
- Vueling: 39 million euros
- Easyjet: 29 million euros
- Norwegian: EUR 1.6 million
- Volotea: EUR 1.2 million
- Recovering fees for transportation of large hand luggage.
- Additional fees for choosing a place or printing of planting coupons.
- Prohibition of cash payment on registration racks.
- Inability to buy goods on board without a bank card.
The Ministry believes that these practices violate consumer rights and contradict the law. In May 2024, the intention was to impose penalties that were now officially confirmed. The appeals filed by companies were rejected.
The Spanish branch group of ALA Airlines criticized the decision, calling it "Nonsens". ALA believes that fines are contrary to the EU rules and the principles of the free market, which can result in up to 50 million passengers to pay for services they do not need. The group plans to appeal the decision in court.
